Legal Matters

All adults, not just servicemembers, should have several legal documents prepared and keep them up to date. If your base has a legal assistance center, people there can help you prepare these important documents—free of charge.

Wills

You need a will—and if you’re married, your spouse needs one too. Your will directs how—and to whom—what you own (your assets) will be distributed when you die. You also use your will to name a guardian for your minor children. If you die without a will, your domicile state (your home state, which is the state in which you file your state income tax return) will make these important decisions for you.

Powers of Attorney

A power of attorney enables you to name someone (such as a spouse, relative, or trusted friend) to handle your finances if you are unable to handle them yourself.

Health-Care Proxies and Living Wills

A health-care proxy allows you to name a person who will make decisions about your health care if you cannot make them yourself. A living will lets you specify the kind of medical treatment you would want or would not want if you are unable to communicate these choices.